Yarn Processing System and Yarn Feeding Device

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a yarn processing system S with a textile machine T, a carrying device P, comprising a round cross-section or square cross-section clamping profile  1  and at least one yarn feeding device F, fixed to the clamping profile, which yarn feeding device fixation has a cut-out  5  and at least one detachable clamping element  7  for mounting on the clamping profile, wherein the cut-out of the fixation B of the yarn feeding device F is either selectively changeable between a round configuration and a square configuration or is embodied to be suitable for both cross-sections.

The invention relates to a yarn processing system according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a yarn feeding device according to the preamble of claim 17.

Within a yarn processing system, including among others a textile machine like a knitting machine or a weaving machine and yarn feeding devices functionally associated with the textile machine, the yarn feeding devices are fixed at a carrying device such that the respective storage body of the feeding device points downwardly. The carrying device comprises a clamping profile which either has a square cross-section or a round cross-section. In particular in the case of a circular knitting machine to the knittirig systems of which many yarn feeding devices have to be associated so that optimum yarn geometries can be obtained, the carrying device may be a carrying ring made of a clamping profile with either a round cross-section or a square cross-section. Similarly, the carrying device of the yarn feeding devices of a weaving machine, a so-called feeder stand, comprises at least one clamping profile having a round cross-section or a square cross-section. Conventionally, the fixations of the yarn feeding devices are adapted to the cross-section of the clamping profile used for respective carrying device, i.e., yarn feeding devices exist which have a fixation for square-cross sections only, and yarn feeding devices having a fixation for round cross-sections only.

A fixation at the lower side of the housing of the yarn feeding device is known from the technical brochure “Storage Feeder NOVAKNIT 1000” 11.905.001.01 DANC-25 of the company Memminger-IRO GmbH, D-72277 Dornstetten, which comprises a cut-out which is open to the lower side and has a square cross-section for receiving a square clamping profile. The fixation is rotatable about an axis in relation to the housing of the yarn feeding device. This axis lies substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the clamping profile.

From the technical brochure “Yarn Storage Feeder SFE” of the company Memminger-IRO GmbH, it is known to integrate the fixation into the rear side of the housing of the yarn feeding device. The fixation has a cut-out which is open to the lower side and has a square cross-section for receiving a square clamping profile the cross-section of which is set up on edge. A flat band cable facing t the yarn feeding device is installed on the broader side of the square clamping profile. The flat cable extends into the cut-out and is connected there with contacting members within the cut-out. The fixation allows only mounting positions of the yarn feeding devices which are offset by 90° to one another.

From the technical brochure “Holder” 006.900.018 dated Feb. 5, 2001 of the company Memminger-IRO GmbH, it is known to selectively equip yarn feeding devices of the type SFE with one of three different fixations, depending on the cross-section of the clamping profile used for carrying device. The first type serves to mount the yarn feeding device at a clamping profile having a round cross-section. The fixation can be rotated about an axis relative to the housing of the yarn feeding device, which axis is perpendicular to the core line of the clamping profile. Furthermore, the yarn feeding device may be rotated with the fixation about the round clamping profile and can then be clamped in different rotary positions. The cut-out of the fixation has a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the round cross-section of the clamping profile. The second type comprises a fixation including a rectangular cut-out which is open in the direction away from the housing wall carrying the fixation. The fixation can be rotated relative to the housing of the yarn feeding device. In this way the yarn feeding device can be fixed substantially parallel to the vertical axis of the square cross-section. The third type comprises a fixation the rectangular cut-out of which is open sidewardly and which can be rotated relative to the housing. In the cut-out and opposite to the clamping element a recess is provided for introducing a flat cable. Contacting members are stationarily placed within the recess. The flat cable which is installed at the broader side of the square clamping profile is introduced into the recess and is engaging into the contacting members by the pressure of the clamping profile. It is only possible to achieve different device mounting positions which are offset to each other by 90°.

It is an object of the invention to design a yarn processing system as well as a yarn feeding device such that one and the same fixation of the yarn feeding device can be used irrespective of whether the clamping profile has a round cross-section or a square cross-section. In this case also the object should be achieved to allow in some cases to connect an installed flat cable irrespective of whether the clamping profile has a square cross-section or a round cross-section. Finally, the yarn feeding device should be universally adjustable on the clamping profile with a view to an optimum yarn geometry.

This object is achieved by the features of claim 1 and the features of claim 17.

As the cut-out selectively can be mounted on a square cross-section or a round cross-section clamping profile a yarn feeding device is achieved which can be mounted universally and independent from the clamping profile provided.

The yarn feeding device can be universally mounted thanks to the special configuration of the cut-out selectively at a square cross-section clamping profile or a round cross-section clamping profile of the carrying device. This structural design of the fixation does not only improve the availability at the user's site of yarn feeding devices but also offers already at the manufacturer's site advantages with a view to production and logistics, since this universal yarn feeding device is independent from clamping profiles. In this case the cut-out either can be changed or is designed from the beginning for both types of cross-sections.

If, in a preferred embodiment, the cut-out of the fixation can be changed selectively, in order to fit a round cross-section or a square cross-section of the clamping profile, the same yarn feeding device can be implemented at carrying devices in yarn processing systems the clamping profile of which either has a round cross-section or a square cross-section. This is of particular advantage for the user when obtaining the yarn feeding devices because the user does not have to take care which clamping profile the in some cases already present carrying device might have. The same is true when a user tries to obtain a carrying device because the user then does not need to consider the cross-section of the clamping profile with a view to the fixations of already present yarn feeding devices or with a view to yarn feeding devices of this kind which are to be purchased in the future.

In an expedient embodiment the cut-out of the fixation is formed with a rectangular configuration. In order to change to the round configuration at least one adapter part is provided which can be inserted into the cut-out having the square configuration. Depending on the cross-section of the clamping profile the adapter part either is inserted or is dispensed with. It is to be noted that this concept also can be inversed, i.e. that the cut-out is formed with a round configuration and that at least one adapter part is provided which can be inserted to change to the square configuration. The respective adapter part is a simple, fair cost and small accessory part of a yarn feeding device.

Expediently, the adapter part has a round depression having a radius of curvature which at least to a large extent corresponds with the curvature of the round cross-section of the clamping profile. The depression may be semi-circular, and in some cases may be structured in order to achieve a firm friction engagement or even a positive engagement. The depression may be smaller in circular measurement than 180° or even may be larger than 180°. In the latter case this circular measurement of more than 180° may be used in some cases to achieve a snapping fixation at the clamping profile.

In an alternative embodiment the adapter part has a V-shaped depression. At least one V-flank may have a structure or a stepped configuration in order to intensify the friction engagement. The V cross-section fits to round cross-sections of different diameters which improves the versatile usefulness of the fixation. The steps even may fit to different square cross-sections.

In order to achieve a firm seat of the yarn feeding device at the respective clamping profile, it may be expedient if the cut-out is bounded by at least one freely cantilevering leg which contains the clamping element, and if opposite to the leg a support plate is provided in the cut-out against which either the clamping profile or the adapter part is pressed by means of the clamping element. The support plate in this case may be flat in order to press the square clamping profile or to press against a flat side of the adapter part for the round cross-section, or the support plate may be rounded in order to abut at the round clamping profile or at a correspondingly round side of the adapter part for a square cross-section. Expediently, the cut-out opens sidewardly, i.e. substantially in the direction in which the adjacent housing side of the yarn feeding device is provided. However, it is also possible to position the open side of the cut-out such that it faces away from the side of the housing of the yarn feeding device.

With a view to a simple connection of the yarn feeding device to a flat cable it is expedient in another embodiment if a flat cable depression is provided in the support plate. Contacting members may be placed in the depression. A flat cable which is installed along the clamping profile then will be inserted into the recess and will be brought into contact engagement with the contacting members by the pressure either of the clamping profile or the adapter part against the support plate. This connection principle for the flat cable can be realised with this fixation irrespective of whether the flat cable is installed at a square clamping profile or a round clamping profile.

Since it is possible in practice that, e.g. in the direction of the adjustability of the clamping element, the thickness of the round cross-section may be significantly larger than the thickness of the square cross-section of the clamping profile, it may be advantageous to make in an embodiment the distance of the leg of the fixation adjustable in relation to the support plate. In the case that the fixation has to be fixed at a thin square cross-section clamping profile, in advance the distance of the leg from the support plate may be shortened. Inversely, for a thick square cross-section clamping profile or a thick round cross-section clamping profile the distance of the leg may be made larger in advance.

With a view to the production it is expedient if the adapter part is a plastic moulded part, e.g. a plastic injection moulded part.

Due to the simplicity of the adapter part, e.g. intended for selectively achieving the round configuration of the cut-out, the adapter part may assume an additional function when installing the flat cable at the clamping profile. This means that the adapter part may be secured at the clamping profile like a holding clip and in turn fixes the flat cable in place. This additional function of the adapter part can be used at locations where a yarn feeding device is to be fixed with the help of the fixation at the clamping profile anyhow. According to a further aspect of the invention a plurality of such adapter parts basically may be snapped as fixation clips for the flat cable also at locations at the clamping profile where no yarn feeding device is to be positioned.

In this case it may be expedient if the round depression of the adapter part extends over more than 180° in circular measurement, in order to achieve a snapping effect by the elasticity of the adapter e.g. made of plastic material. There even might be provided a positioning device for the flat cable at the side of the adapter part which is opposite to the depression. The positioning device e.g. may be easily bendable hooks or the like.

In order to expand the adjustment range of the yarn feeding device relative to the clamping profile it is particularly expedient according to a further aspect of the invention to provide a fixation at the housing of the yarn feeding device so that the fixation can be rotated about an axis which substantially is perpendicular to the core axis of the clamping profile. In this case the fixation should allow to be fixed in different rotary positions relative to the housing.

In order to even allow an adjustment of the yarn feeding device about the core axis of the clamping profile in case of a square clamping profile even a sort of a universal joint may be expedient which is provided between the housing and the fixation. This type of adjustment of the yarn feeding device also could be achieved by two adapter parts in the cut-out, one of which can be rotated relative to the other and relative to the square clamping profile.

Expediently, the respective adjustment range is limited in order to avoid damages in the electric connection between the contacting members and electric components within or at the exterior of the yarn feeding device.

With a view to a relatively large adjustment range it may be expedient in another embodiment to place the contacting members in the fixation stationarily and to connect them by means of flexible conductors with a current interface stationarily provided in the housing of the yarn feeding device. These flexible conductors should be installed with a certain excess length and, in some cases, loosely, such that they allow relatively large adjustment movements between the housing and the fixation.

In order to allow to fix or position the yarn feeding device without changing the fixation and without inserting additional parts or without removing inserted parts and irrespective of whether the clamping profile has a square cross-section or a round cross-section, a further embodiment of the yarn feeding device is characterised by a pressing plate which has a substantially V-shaped depression in the lower side facing the yarn feeding device. The pressing plate is movably arranged in the cut-out at the clamping element which is shaped as a clamping screw. The pressing plate transfers the holding force of the clamping element on the clamping profile irrespective of whether the clamping profile has a square cross-section or a round cross-section. The pressing plate contacts the square cross-section with two contact areas and in flat relation, while a round cross-section is fixed at two line contact areas in the depression. The depression may e.g. be V-shaped and with sharp edges, or may have in the deepest region or at the ends of the flanks slightly rounded portions, or may in some cases even have ridges.

Expediently a form-fit coupling is provided between the pressing plate and the clamping screw, which coupling couples the pressing plate in axial direction of the clamping screw such that with the clamping screw loosened the pressing plate cannot fall off, but that relative rotary movements are allowed between the clamping screw and the pressing plate. Due to this the clamping screw can be rotated in the threaded bore of the leg relative to the pressing plate while the pressing plate in some cases may adapt itself properly to the shape of the clamping profile and in relation to the fixation.

Expediently, the pressing plate is held at the clamping screw such that it at least can tilt within limits and cannot fall off. The tiltability allows to adjust the yarn feeding device in some at least limited tilted positions of relative to the clamping profile, and also allows a proper adaptation of the pressing plate at the clamping profile in order to transmit high clamping forces uniformly.

With a view to production the pressing plate is a simple stamped sheet metal part having substantially constant wall thickness. The V-shaped depression is bent in the in some cases flat pressing plate such that the depression extends continuously over the length of the pressing plate. In an expedient embodiment the pressing plate is rectangular or square and is longer than the cut-out in lateral direction of the cut-out, preferably such that the pressing plate protrudes at both lateral sides from the cut-out. In this fashion the holding force is transmitted via large areas on the clamping profile.

Expediently, the depression is generally V-shaped and continuous over the length of the pressing plate such that it even co-acts with a round cross-section in large or long contact areas with a round cross-section.

With a view to correct force transmission relations the V-shaped depression should be at least substantially symmetric to the axis of the clamping screw and should have an opening angle larger than 90°, preferably an opening angle of about 120°. With this design the fixation can be mounted reliably at round cross-sections which have different diameters.

In a further advantageous embodiment a respective pressing surface continues at each side edge of the V-shaped depression. In this case both pressing surfaces should be in a common plane which may be substantially perpendicular to the axis of the clamping screw. Preferably, these pressing surfaces are bounded by edges which are parallel to each other and in some cases are straight. The edges bound edge strips of the pressing plate. These pressing surfaces will come into contact in the case of a square cross-section of the clamping profile while they might not have any function in the case of a round cross-section of the clamping profile.

A further important aspect are pressing surfaces of different widths at both sides of the V-shaped depression. The pressing plate may be placed after disassembly of the clamping element in two differently rotated mounting positions in the cut-out which mounting positions are offset to each other by 180° about the axis of the clamping screw. In one of the mounting positions a predetermined larger tilted position adjustment gap is formed between the edge of the narrower edge strip and the wall of the cut-out, while in the other mounting position only a minimum or even no guiding gap at all will be formed. In one of the mounting positions for this reason the fixation with the yarn feeding device may be pivoted at least limited about the axis of the clamping element back and forth, when the pressing plate already contacts the round cross-section, such that mounting positions of the yarn feeding device can be realised which may be desirable for an optimum yarn geometry or for other reasons. In the other mounting position, however, the pressing plate cannot be or can hardly be rotated relative to the fixation which may be advantageous in the case of a clamping profile having a square cross-section. In the case that the pressing plate is placed in the one of the mounting positions for a square clamping profile, then the yarn feeding device may be rotated, at least between limits, relative to the clamping profile about the axis of the clamping element.

In an expedient embodiment the cut-out is bounded by a leg at which at least one support plate is guided such that it can be shifted along. The support plate may be about as big as the pressing plate or even can be larger or longer. In both cases of a square cross-section as well as of a round cross-section the side of the clamping profile which is opposite to the pressing plate will be supported on the support plate such that the support plate is either pressed on the support surface at the yarn feeding device or secures the flat cable in the depression while the holding force is transmitted on the support surface of the yarn feeding device. Furthermore, the support plate may be expedient in case of a round cross-section clamping profile in order to prevent that the round cross-section undesirably will deform the flat cable. In the case of a square clamping profile the support plate could be removed or could be omitted such that then the square clamping profile directly abuts on the support surface of the yarn feeding device.

In a particularly expedient embodiment the support plate is guided in a dovetail guidance at the leg. This dovetail guidance may be formed directly between the side edges of the leg and the support plate, or, alternatively, at undercut guiding edges of the leg. In this case, first the support plate is a component of the fixation which cannot be lost but which may be adjusted along the leg, e.g. in order to first insert the flat cable into the depression before the fixation is finally fixed at the clamping profile.

In an expedient embodiment the leg is removably secured at the yarn feeding device, preferably, in several different fixing positions. With this the active length of the fixation can be adapted to the thickness of the clamping profile. This also allows to disassemble the leg, e.g. in order, if desired, to remove the support plate.

With a view to an optimum yarn geometry a position of the yarn feeding device could be desirable in which the yarn feeding device is rotated about the core axis of the clamping profile, e.g. in order to align the axis of the yarn feeding device in the carrying device downwardly and inwardly inclined to the centre of the knitting machine. At a clamping profile having a round cross-section the tilted position anyhow can be selected freely thanks to the round cross-section. In the case of a square clamping profile such a tilted position cannot be realised per se but first thanks to the wedge cross-section of the support plate and the relative tiltability of the pressing plate at the clamping element.

In another expedient embodiment even two support plates are provided which have substantially the same wedge-shaped cross-sections. Both support plates may be combined such that their surfaces which are opposite to each other either are parallel to each other or are inclined at an angle to each other. For this purpose only one of the support plates needs to be rotated by 180°. With the angle which is formed by both surfaces a predetermined rotary position of the yarn feeding device can be adjusted at a square clamping profile.

Even in the support plate a V-shaped depression may be provided for a round cross-section of the clamping profile. Such a V-shaped depression is particularly expedient when the support plate has a wedge-shaped cross-section, in order to e.g. adjust a somewhat rotated position of the yarn feeding device in case of a square clamping profile. In this case due to other circumstances when mounting the same yarn feeding device at a round cross-section clamping profile an undesirable lateral force could be produced, which force, however, can be avoided with the help of the two co-operating V-shaped depressions in the pressing plate and in the support plate.

The coupling between the clamping screw and the pressing plate can be very simple with a view to production. The clamping screw may have a thread-free end pin in continuation to a shoulder which end pin penetrates a bore of the pressing plate with clearance and which is then riveted in the V-shaped depression. The bore is provided substantially in the deepest portion of the V-shaped depression. In this fashion the relative rotatability and e.g. a certain tiltability of the pressing plate are achieved.

Embodiments of the invention will be explained with the help of the drawings. In the drawings is:

FIG. 1 a schematic illustration of a yarn processing system,

FIG. 2 a yarn feeding device in a mounting position on a carrying device such that the yarn feeding device hangs downwardly, e.g. within the yarn processing system of FIG. 1,

FIG. 3 a detailed side view of the fixation shown in FIG. 2 after a change to a square configuration,

FIG. 4 a detailed side view of a further embodiment after a change to a square configuration having a thinner square thickness,

FIG. 5 a side view of a yarn feeding device having another embodiment of a fixation, in an adjustment for a square configuration,

FIG. 6 a side view to FIG. 5 rotated by 90°,

FIG. 7 a view of an adapter part as a detail variant to FIG. 2,

FIG. 8 another embodiment of a fixation as an alternative to the fixation of FIG. 2,

FIG. 9 a view of an adapter part being a holding clip for a flat cable at a clamping profile having a round cross-section,

FIG. 10 a view of a further embodiment,

FIG. 11 a bottom view of a yarn feeding device having another embodiment of a fixation, in disassembled condition,

FIG. 12 a side view to the embodiment of FIG. 11,

FIG. 13 the yarn feeding device of FIGS. 11 and 12, mounted at a round cross-section clamping profile,

FIG. 14 a top view to FIG. 13 with the yarn feeding device pivoted in relation to the clamping profile,

FIG. 15 the yarn feeding device of FIGS. 11 and 12 mounts at a square clamping profile,

FIG. 16 a detailed view of the fixation,

FIG. 17 a changed detail of the fixation,

FIG. 18 a further changed detail of the fixation,

FIG. 19 a further detail of the fixation, in a first operative position, and

FIG. 20 the detail of FIG. 19 in another operative position.

A yarn processing system S comprises in FIG. 1 a textile machine T like a knitting machine K (circular knitting machine or flat knitting machine), a carrying device P, and several yarn feeding devices F which are fixed and positioned at the carrying device P. The carrying device P e.g. is a ring made from a clamping profile 1. Each yarn feeding device F is fixed at the clamping profile 1 by a fixation B. Yarns Y are fed from the yarn feeding devices F to knitting systems of the knitting machine. The yarn feeding devices F are positioned at the carrying device P such that in each case an optimum yarn geometry is achieved (e.g. yarn paths which are substantially of equal length, as short as possible and without significant deflections).

Although a flat cable 2 is indicated in FIG. 1 to which at least one of the yarn feeding devices F is connected (for power supply and/or within a communication system or control system), it would be possible as an alternative to connect each yarn feeding device to a separate cable. The flat cable 2 as shown, expediently, is installed at the carrying device P, preferably at the clamping profile 1, such that each provided yarn feeding device F directly is connected galvanically to the respective conductors of the flat cable by means of contacting members which are explained later.

Although the yarn processing system S in FIG. 1 shows a knitting machine K with knitting yarn feeding devices F, the principle of the invention can also be used in other yarn processing systems, e.g. in the case of a weaving machine and weft yarn feeding devices. In the latter case the yarn feeding devices are fixed and aligned at one or several clamping profiles of a so-called feeder stand and such that the storage bodies point downwardly from the clamping profiles.

FIG. 2 illustrates e.g. the yarn feeding device F which is shown in FIG. 1 at the far left side and which is fixed in a fixed position for operation by the fixation B at the clamping profile 1 of the carrying device P. The yarn feeding device F has a housing 3 and e.g. a storage body 4. The fixation B either is part of the housing 3 or is secured at the housing, respectively.

The fixation B has a cut-out 5 which is open along one longitudinal side of the housing 3 and which generally is tetragonal or square. The cut-out is bounded by a freely ending leg 6, a leg 8 extending to the housing 3, and a support surface 9 which is flat in the shown embodiment. A clamping element 7, e.g. a clamping screw, is adjustably arranged in the leg 6 in at least one threaded bore. The clamping element e.g. can be adjusted by screwing. A depression 10 for the flat cable 2 (FIG. 1) may be provided, as shown, in the support surface 9. In the depression 10, in some cases, contacting members 11 may be placed which are fixed in the housing and into which the flat cable 2 is pressed such that the contacting members pierce the insulation.

The clamping profiles have a round cross-section R (a tube or a solid round profile) and is inserted into an adapter part A which contacts the support surface 9 with, a flat side 15. In some cases the adapter part A even may abut at the leg 8. The adapter part A has a round depression 13 having at least to a large extent the same radius of curvature as the round cross-section R, and has side legs 14. The depression 13 extends, e.g., in circular measurement over 180°, or more or less. For setting the operative position of the yarn feeding device F, e.g. before tightening the clamping element 7, the housing 3 may be rotated back and forth about the core axis of the round profile R in the direction of double arrow 17. The flat cable 2 is pressed by the flat rear side 15 of the adapter part A into the contacting members 11. In this case the carrying device P may be a ring frame made of the round cross-section clamping profile 1. On the ring frame also the other yarn feeding devices F are fixed in the same way. The adapter part A serves to change the square configuration of the cut-out 5 to a round configuration.

For the case that the carrying device P should have a clamping profile 1 having a square cross-section V or V1 (FIGS. 3, 4) the fixation B can be changed from the round configuration shown in FIG. 2 to the original square configuration (FIGS. 3 and 4). For this purpose the adapter part A of FIG. 2 is removed. The clamping profile 1 then directly contacts the support surface 9 and is pressed by the clamping element 7 such that the clamping profile 1 also presses the flat cable 10 into the depression 10 and such that it, in some cases, even is supported at the leg 8.

In the case of FIG. 4 the square cross-section V1 is thinner than in FIG. 3. For this reason it is expedient to divide the leg 8 into the leg parts 8 a, 8 b which are adjustable in relation to one another in order to allow to change the distance between the freely ending leg 6 and the support 9. This adjustability e.g. can be realised via a toothing or even a threaded spindle.

FIG. 5 indicates another embodiment of the fixation B of the yarn feeding device F, which fixation allows at least an additional device adjustment about an axis 21 substantially parallel to the direction of the leg 8, e.g. further to the left side as shown in FIG. 5. The fixation B may be a unitary part 16 at which the legs 6, 8 and the support surface 9 as well as the cut-out 5 with the square configuration are provided. The contacting members 11 in the depression 10 are placed adjacent to the support surface 9, and are connected via flexible conductors 19 with a current interface 18 in the housing 3. Expediently, the flexible contactors 19 are installed loosely and with excess length such that they compensate for a rotation of the fixation B about the axis 21 relative to the housing 3.

In FIG. 5 a sort of a universal joint J is indicated in dotted lines between the fixation B and the housing 3, such that the housing 3, mainly in the case of a square clamping profile 1, additionally can be adjusted e.g. about an axis which is perpendicular to the core axis of the clamping profile 1.

In order to protect the conductors 9 against damage it is expedient to limit the respective adjustment range. The fixation B e.g. can be fixed by means of a fastening element 20 in different adjusted positions. The fastening element 20 expediently should be accessible from the exterior even when the yarn feeding device F is mounted (e.g. through a hollow shaft 29). In the universal joint region cut-outs 25 could be formed for the conductors 19. A convexly rounded or stepped support 27 could be provided for the head of the fastening element 20, in order to assure firm fixing in each adjusted position.

In FIG. 5B the fixation B has the square configuration for being fixed e.g. at the clamping profile having the square cross-section V or V1 (FIG. 3, FIG. 4). In order to change the fixation B for a round configuration the adapter part A as shown in FIG. 2 (or the adapter part A shown in FIG. 7) is inserted into the cut-out 5 and is positioned at the flat rear side 15 on the support surface 9, before the round cross-section clamping profile 1 is inserted and is clamped via the clamping element 7. In this case, if present, the flat cable is pressed into the depression 10.

FIG. 6 illustrates the arrangement of the fixation B at a housing side in a top view of the housing 3 of the yarn feeding device. In this case the axis 21 is highlighted.

The adapter part A of FIG. 7 differs from the adapter part of FIG. 2 in that the depression 13′ is not round but has a V-shape and is open upwardly. In some cases, at least one V-flank could be provided with a structure S or with steps or shoulders, in order to increase the friction resistance when fixing the yarn feeding device.

FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the fixation B which might be used for the yarn feeding device F in FIG. 5 or in FIG. 2, respectively, and which fixation shows the inverted principle of FIGS. 2 and 5. The cut-out 5 basically is formed with a round configuration, such that it is bounded at two sides by the legs 6 and 8 and by a round (or V-shaped, as in FIG. 7) depression 22 in the flat support surface 9′. For fixing on a round cross-section R the clamping profile 3 directly is inserted into the depression 22 and is clamped therein by the clamping element 7. The depression 10′ containing the contacting members 11 follows the contour of the round depression 22. In the case that a flat cable is provided, the flat cable is pressed by the clamping profile 1 directly into the depression 10′ and onto the contacting members 11. For changing the fixation B in FIG. 8 an adapter part A′ (indicated by dotted lines) is inserted which has a concave curvature 24 corresponding to the depression 22 and a flat rear side 23 which is pressed onto the clamping profile 1 having the square cross-section V or V1 (FIGS. 3, 4). The embodiment of FIG. 8 has a geometric configuration (thanks to the depression 22 and the support surface 9′), which basically fits both to a round clamping profile or a square clamping profile 1, and, in particular, without the necessity of manipulation with an adapter part A′ or A″.

For the case that there is no flat cable 2 installed on the clamping profile 1, but that the yarn feeding device is connected via a separate cable, even a flat plate could be inserted at the adapter part A′ for the square profile in FIG. 8, or the clamping profile 1 could be inserted directly into the depression 22.

FIG. 8 shows in dotted lines an adapter part A″ having the shape of a cylinder section in order to allow to rotate a pressed on square clamping profile 1 relative to the fixation B at least a little bit and to allow to adjust the yarn feeding device F accordingly. In this case a structure S, e.g. ribs or ridges, may be provided in order to improve the friction engagement or in order to even positively define several adjustment steps.

FIG. 9 illustrates an additional function of the adapter part A e.g. according to FIG. 2. In particular, here the adapter part A additionally fulfils the function of a holding clip C for securing the flat cable 2 installed at the round cross-section clamping profile. Both legs 14 extend e.g. over more than 180° in circular measurement such that by using the elasticity of the material of the adapter part A the legs can be snapped on the clamping profile 1. In the flat rear side 15 of the adapter part A a positioning device 12 for securing the flat cable 2 is provided. The positioning device 12 may be integrally formed hooks or similar and flexible elements which, preferably, are formed unitarily with the adapter part A.

The adapter part A shown in FIG. 9 may be used at locations where a yarn feeding device has to be fixed. Besides that such adapter parts A also may be used as holding clips C even at other locations along the clamping profile 1 for installing the flat cable 2, i.e. at locations where normally no yarn feeding devices are fixed or mounted.

It is expedient to form the adapter part as a plastic moulded part, preferably as an injection moulded plastic part, although the adapter part e.g. also could be cut off from an extruded light metal or plastic profile.

In the embodiment in FIG. 10 the yarn feeding device F may be adjusted about the core axis of the square clamping profile 1, at least within a limited adjustment range. The cut-out 5 has a square configuration including the flat support surface 9 and, in some cases, the flat cable depression 10. The adapter part A, which has been inserted to change to the round configuration, is combined with a second adapter part A′″ which has a convexly rounded rear side and a flat support surface for the square clamping profile 1. For this reason the fixation B, provided that the clamping profile 1 remains distant from the leg 8, may be adjusted substantially around the core axis of the clamping profile 1, and then can be clamped respectively. Expediently, the rounded surfaces between the adapter parts A, A′″ are formed with structures S in order to improve the friction engagement, or are even e.g. ribs or teeth, such that several adjustment steps are defined.

The embodiment of the yarn feeding device F shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 differs from the preceding embodiments by a fixation B which can be used universally for mounting the yarn feeding device F on clamping profiles 1 having differing thicknesses and widths and as well in the case of a square cross-section or a round cross-section, and without modifying manipulation and without disassembly or assembly of components.

The leg 8 which positions the leg 6 with the clamping element 7 at the yarn feeding device F is secured at a boss 46 of the housing 3, e.g. in one of several fixing positions. FIG. 11 shows a fixing position in which a fastening screw is provided in a threaded bore 34 of the leg 8 (indicated by a cross) such that the leg 6 maintains a maximum distance from the support surface 9 at the housing 3. In the case that a shorter distance of the leg 8 is needed, the screw is inserted in the other bore 33 and the leg 8 is shifted further inwards than shown in FIG. 11. A pressing plate 31 is movably connected to the clamping element 7, e.g. a clamping screw. The pressing plate 31 is connected to the clamping element at an end thereof which extends into the cut-out 8. The pressing plate 31 (e.g. a stamped sheet metal part having constant thickness) comprises a depression at the side facing the yarn feeding device, e.g. a substantially V-shaped depression, which is formed symmetrically in a cross-section and in relation to an axis 21′ of the clamping element 7 (FIG. 12), and which depression continuously extends over the length of the pressing plate 31 (FIG. 11).

The opening angle in the depression 35 may amount to about 120°. The opening angle should be larger than 90°. Substantially flat pressing surfaces 36, 37 continue both edges of the depression 35. The pressing surfaces 36, 37 are positioned in a common plane which is perpendicular to the axis 21′. The pressing surfaces 36, 37 are arranged at sideward edge strips of the pressing plate 31 and terminate e.g. at straight edges 38, 39 which are parallel to each other.

In this case the pressing plate 31 may be installed in two operative positions rotated respectively about 180° about the axis 21′. In the operative position shown in FIG. 12 in solid lines, the edge 38 and the inner wall of the cut-out 5 define a tilted position adjustment gap 44 of a certain dimension, since the edge strip with the pressing surface 36 is narrower than the edge strip with the pressing surface 37. In the other operative position, which is indicated in FIG. 12 in dotted lines (shown in FIG. 15 in solid lines) the other edge 39 and the wall of the cut-outs 5 define a narrow guiding gap 45 only.

The pressing plate 31 is movably connected with the clamping element 7, preferably by means of a form-fit coupling 40, such that the pressing plate 31 may carry out tilting motions at least in the direction of a double arrow 42, and such that the clamping element 7 always can be rotated relative to the pressing plate 31 about the axis 21′. The plan view in FIG. 14 shows a rectangular or square contour shape of the pressing plate 31. The longitudinal extension of the pressing plate 31 is larger than the width of the leg 6, and such that the pressing plate 31 protrudes from both lateral sides of the cut-out 5. The pressing plate 31 e.g. may be a section of an endless profile.

The coupling 40 e.g. is formed such that a thread-free end pin 41 penetrates a bore of the pressing plate 1. The end pin 41 continues the threaded stem of the clamping element 7 via a shoulder 51. The end pin 41 may be swaged or riveted in the interior of the depression 35. The bore is located at the deepest location of the depression 35 and e.g. in the longitudinal mid region of the pressing plate 31.

A support 31 is movably guided in FIGS. 11 and 12 on the leg 8 in the direction of the leg 8. The support plate 32 has, e.g., as well a rectangular or square contour and has, in FIGS. 11 and 12, constant thickness. The support plate 32 serves to be set on the flat support surface 9 of the yarn feeding device, in order to hold the flat cable 2 (FIGS. 15, 13) in the depression 12 and at the same time to transfer the contact pressure on the support surface 9.

In FIG. 13 the yarn feeding device F is mounted by the fixation B on a clamping profile 1 having a round cross-section R. The round cross-section R contacts the depression 35 at two spaced apart, linear contact regions, and contacts the support plate 32 on one side of the contact plate 32, such that the support plate 32 rests with the other side on the support surface 9. The yarn feeding device F may be fixed in the respective desired rotary position about the core axis of the clamping profile 1 (as indicated by double arrow 17).

In FIG. 14, the yarn feeding device F is fixed in a pivoted position relative to the round cross-section clamping profile. In this case the pressing plate 31 also is rotated within the dimension of the gap 44 (FIG. 12). This adjustment possibility of differently tilted positions is indicated by double arrow 30.

The fixation B is designed such that it fits to round cross-sections R having differing diameters. In the case of a smaller diameter than shown the leg 8 could be secured at the deeper position within the boss 46.

In FIG. 15 the yarn feeding device F is fixed by the fixation B at the clamping profile 1 having a square cross-section V, such that the storage body points downwardly. The pressing surface 36, 37 rest on the clamping profile 1. The support plate 32 rests on the support surface 9. The pressing plate 31 is placed in the other operative position in which the edge 39 defines the narrow guiding gap 54 with the wall of the cut-out 5, such that the pressing plate 31 cannot be rotated markedly about the axis 21′ of the clamping element 7. Furthermore, the leg 8 is secured in FIG. 15 in the lower position at the boss 46. Incidentally, the support 32 even, e.g. in the case of a very high square cross-section V, could be omitted such that then the square cross-section directly rests on the support surface 9.

The support plate 32 is guided at the leg 8 e.g. with a clearance, and, in particular, in a sort of a dovetail guidance. Hook-shaped parts 48 of the support plate 32 grip behind undercut guiding edges 47 of the leg 8 such that the support plate 32 can be moved in the direction along the leg 8 without the possibility of getting lost. This, furthermore, is the direction along which the bores 33, 34 follow one another. The leg 8 could have a square cross-section such that then the dovetail guidance is formed between the support plate 32 and the not undercut side edges of the leg 8.

FIG. 7 shows, contrary to the support plate 32 in FIGS. 11, 12, 13 and 15, a support plate 32′ which has a wedge-shaped cross-section, e.g. such that the thickness of the support plate 32′ decreases with distance from the part 48. Even in case of a square clamping profile the yarn feeding device F could be mounted with this support plate 32′ somewhat rotated such that the axis 21′ of the clamping element and, in some cases, also the axis of the yarn feeding device, is somewhat inclined in relation to the vertical direction 50 as e.g. defined by the clamping profile.

FIG. 18 illustrates a support plate 32″ which also has a wedge-shaped cross-section in order to allow the above-mentioned rotation of the yarn feeding device on the clamping profile 1 having a square cross-section V, namely by using the tiltability of the pressing plate 31 at the clamping element. However, in order to avoid lateral forces on the upper side of the support plate (as with the support plate 32′) when fixing the same fixation B on a round cross-section R, the support plate 32″ is provided with a V-shaped depression 49 for round cross-sections. For abutment on a square cross-section flat surface areas are provided at both sides of the depression 49.

When using the support plate 32′ or 32″ in place of the support plate 32 in FIG. 15, the yarn feeding device F could be mounted such that it e.g. is rotated clockwise relative to the clamping profile 1.

Incidentally, the respective support plate 32 (32′, 32″) can be removed from the fixation B by pulling the support plate off from the leg 8 after disassembling the leg 8 from the boss 46.

FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate a further detail variant of an embodiment which is designed such that it allows to position the yarn feeding device as in FIG. 15 on a square cross-section V, and also to allow a rotated positioning corresponding to FIG. 17. In this case the support plate 32 is divided into two support plates 32′, 32′″, each of which has such a wedge-shaped cross-section that both support plates 32′, 32′″ define in the combination according to FIG. 19 sides which are parallel to each other and are perpendicular to the axis 21′, while the support plates are combined in the other operative position as shown in FIG. 20, e.g. by rotating the lower support plate 32′″ over 180°, so that both sides of the combined support plates form an angle with each other. Then one side will be e.g. oriented perpendicular to the vertical direction 50, while the other side will be oriented perpendicular to the axis 21′. By using this combination the yarn feeding device F can be mounted on the square cross-section e.g. of FIG. 15 in a position which in relation to the position as shown in FIG. 15 is rotated in clockwise direction. 

1-33. (canceled)
 34. Yarn processing system, including a textile machine in particular a knitting machine or a weaving machine, a carrying device comprising a clamping profile having either a round cross-section or a square cross-section, and at least one yarn feeding device which is fixed at the clamping profile, the yarn feeding device having a fixation with a cut-out including at least one releasable clamping element for positioning and clamping the yarn feeding device on the clamping profile, wherein the cut-out of the fixation is shaped with a geometric configuration which selectively fits on a round cross-section or a square cross-section and that the cut-out of the fixation selectively is changeable between round configurations and square configurations.
 35. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the cut-out is formed with a square configuration, and that at least one adapter part is provided for changing the cut-out into the round configuration, which adapter part is to be inserted into the cut-out having the square configuration.
 36. Yarn processing system according to claim 35, wherein the adapter part comprises a round depression having a radius of curvature which at least to a large extent corresponds to the curvature of the round cross-section.
 37. Yarn processing system according to claim 35, wherein the adapter part comprises a V-shaped depression, preferably, having at least one structured V-flank.
 38. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the cut-out is bounded by at least one freely ending leg which contains the clamping element, and that at least one support surface is provided opposite to the leg in the cut-out, against which support surface either the clamping profile or the adapter part is pressed by means of the clamping element.
 39. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein a flat cable depression is provided in the support surface, in which depression contacting members are placed, and that a flat cable installed along the clamping profile is laid into the flat cable depression and is held by a pressing action either of the clamping profile or of the adapter part against the support surface in a contact engagement with the contacting members.
 40. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the distance between the leg and the support surface is adjustable.
 41. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the adapter part is a plastic moulded part.
 42. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the adapter part is formed as a flat cable installation clip fitting on the round cross-section clamping profile.
 43. Yarn processing system according to claim 42, wherein the round depression of the adapter part extends over more than 180° in circular measurement, and that the adapter part has a positioning device for the flat cable at the side remote from the depression.
 44. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the fixation is rotatable at the housing of the yarn feeding device at least about an axis which substantially extends perpendicular to the core axis of the clamping profile, and that, preferably, the fixation can be fixed at the housing in different rotary positions.
 45. Yarn processing system according to claim 44, wherein a universal joint is provided between the fixation and the housing.
 46. Yarn processing system according to claim 44, wherein the relative adjustment range of the fixation on the housing is limited.
 47. Yarn processing system according to claim 44, wherein the contacting members are stationarily placed in the fixation and are galvanically connected with a current interface stationarily provided in the housing of the yarn feeding device via conductors which are loosely installed with some excess length.
 48. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein in addition to the one adapter part a second adapter part is inserted into the cut-out formed with the square configuration for the clamping profile having a square cross-section, and that the fixation is adjustable relative to the clamping profile and to the second adapter part.
 49. Yarn feeding device, in particular for a knitting machine, the yarn feeding device having a fixation with a cut-out for positioning and clamping the yarn feeding device at a clamping profile of a carrying device, wherein the cut-out either is formed or can be formed with a geometric configuration fitting on a round cross-section or a square cross-section of the clamping profile, and that a pressing plate is movably arranged in the cut-out at the clamping element which is formed as a clamping screw engaging into the cut-out, that the pressing plate has a continuous depression for at least partial engagement of a clamping profile having a round cross section and being inserted into the cut-out, the depression being located in the side of the pressing plate facing the yarn feeding device.
 50. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein a form-fit coupling is provided between the pressing plate and the clamping screw, which coupling couples the pressing plate in axial direction of the clamping screw with the clamping screw and which allows relative rotary movements between the clamping screw and the pressing plate.
 51. Yarn feeding device according to claim 50, wherein the pressing plate is held via the coupling at least such that it can tilt between limits on the clamping screw between limits.
 52. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the pressing plate is a stamped sheet metal part having substantially constant thickness.
 53. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the pressing plate either is rectangular or square and is longer in lateral direction of the cut-out than the cut-out, and that, preferably, the pressing plate protrudes beyond the cut-out at both lateral sides.
 54. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the depression is substantially V-shaped and is continuous over the length of the pressing plate.
 55. Yarn feeding device according to claim 54, wherein the V-shaped depression in its cross-section is at least substantially symmetrical to the axis of the clamping screw, and that the depression has an opening angle of more than 90°, preferably of about 120°.
 56. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein pressing surfaces continue from side edges of the depression, which pressing surfaces are situated in a common plane which essentially is perpendicular to the axis of the clamping screw and that, preferably, the pressing surfaces are provided at edge strips of the pressing plate and are bounded by straight edges.
 57. Yarn feeding device according to claim 56, wherein in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the depression the two pressing surfaces have different widths and that the pressing plate can be placed in the cut-out in two operative positions rotated about the axis of the clamping screw by 180°, such that a predetermined large adjustment gap for tilted positions is defined in the one operative position between the wall of the cut-out and the edge of the pressing plate, and that in the other operative position an only minimal small guiding gap is formed.
 58. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the cut-out is bounded by a leg provided at the yarn feeding device, and that at least one support plate is slidably guided in the cut-out at the leg, the contour and size of which at least substantially corresponds with the contour and size of the pressing plate, or which is a little bit longer than the pressing plate.
 59. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein the support plate is guided in a dovetail guidance at the leg, preferably either directly at the side edges or at undercut guiding edges of the leg.
 60. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein the leg is detachably secured at the yarn feeding device, preferably to define several different fixing positions.
 61. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein the support plate has a wedge-shaped cross-section.
 62. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein two support plates are provided which have equal wedge-shaped cross-sections.
 63. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein a continuous depression is provided in the support plate which depression is aligned in the direction of the axis of the clamping screw with the depression of the pressing plate.
 64. Yarn feeding device according to claim 50, wherein the clamping screw screwed into a threaded bore of the leg has a thread-free end pin in continuation of a shoulder, and that the end pin penetrates a bore of the pressing plate with a clearance and is riveted in the depression, the bore being provided in the deepest portion of the depression. 